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It may appear innocent at first glance, but the yellow-trumpeted daffodil (Narcissus spp.) carries two toxic agents in its showy flowers, stems, leaves and bulb. The above-ground parts of the daffodil contain lycorine and calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic to both you and your pets.

Identification

The European-native daffodil's distinct, showy, trumpet-shaped bloom makes it easy to spot. The central trumpet and the surrounding single rosette petals are yellow, white or red, although you may see a few other colors. Daffodils grow 12 to 15 inches tall and the flowers may form in clusters or as a single bloom. While short-lived, expect to see daffodils bloom in late winter or early spring. Daffodils grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9.

Lycorine Dangers

The daffodil bulb contains the toxic chemical lycorine, which is a phenanthridine alkaloid found in many flowering plants, such as the amaryllis (Hippeastrum spp.), which grows in USDA zones 6 through 11. All parts of the bulb are toxic to people and animals, but the toxicity level is low unless you eat a large quantity. For example, a handful of bulbs is considered toxic, while one bite may lead to an upset stomach.

If you accidentally ingest lycorine, you may begin to have stomach problems, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, as well as salivating, trembling, depression, convulsions and tremors. Lycorine is also poisonous to cats, dogs and horses. Symptoms are similar to humans but may also include low blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmias.

Calcium Oxalate Crystal Dangers

Daffodil plants also contain calcium oxalate crystals. If you come into contact with the leaves and stems, you will know it. The crystals cause immediate pain in your mouth or a burning sensation on your skin. Symptoms of ingestion include difficulty swallowing, swelling and temporary hoarseness. To avoid "lily rash," wear gloves while handling daffodils and wash your hands if you come in contact with this plant.

Getting Help

If you accidentally ingest the toxic chemical lycorine, contact a poison control center or go to the emergency room immediately. Symptoms may be alleviated with fluid replacement. If you believe your pet has eaten a daffodil bulb, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Oxalate crystal exposure is less severe than lycorine ingestion because the instant burning sensation acts as a warning sign to stop touching the plant. If your skin is exposed to oxalate crystals, wash the exposed area with warm, running water. For mouth burns or swelling, try eating cold foods, such as ice cream or ice pops, to dull the pain. If problems persist, contact your doctor immediately.

About the Author

Leah Waldron is the head of Traveler Services at First Abroad, a gap year travel company based in Boston and London. As a travel, research and LGBT news writer, Waldron has publication credit on magazines and newspapers including "Curve Magazine," "USA Today," "The Sun Sentinel" and the "The Houston Chronicle." Waldron has a bachelor's and master's degree in creative writing from Florida State University.